Also unveiled this week...
Also unveiled this week is the worldò€™s first integrated billing system for motorists using electric car charging posts.
Codenamed ED - standing...
Codenamed ED - standing for European Design - it"s the first Kia to be built specifically for drivers in the UK.
With its attractive front lights, sculpted bonnet and deep bumpers, the five-door model has clearly been inspired by key rivals in the family hatchback sector.
Distinctive badging, chrome trim and an angular tail complete the practical-looking package, along with a large tailgate. Inside, the newcomer promises soft-touch fabric finishes to the seats, and fine grained plastics for the dashboard. Standard kit will include air-conditioning and electric windows, while luxuries such as sat-nav will be offered as a cost option.
Because of its European roots, safety and crash protection have been high on the list of priorities during its development. That means all cars will offer electronic brakeforce distribution, as well as driver, passenger and side airbags. Three-point seatbelts will be available across the rear bench, and a 40/60 split and fold seat-back will allow flexible luggage space.
Aimed at the likes of the Ford Focus, the ED continues Kia"s aim of building spacious, well equipped cars at top value prices. Based on the platform of the Cerato - the car that it will replace - the newcomer measures 4.42 metres long and is expected to be priced from í‚á£13,000.
The four-strong engine line-up will include 1.6-litre and 2.0 petrol powerplants with 104bhp and 141bhp respectively, plus 100bhp 1.5-litre and 111bhp 2.0 diesels. There are currently no plans to offer the bigger 2.5-litre or 2.7 units available in the likes of the Sedona MPV.
Designed and engineered at Kia"s new headquarters in Frankfurt, Germany, the newcomer is expected to play a key role in the company"s ambitions to sell 100,000 cars a year in the UK by 2010.